The role of platelet rich plasma injection in the management of early osteoarthritis of the knee

Background: Osteoarthritis of the knee is a degenerative disorder associated with significant morbidity in the form of pain, knee stiffness and decrease in the functional capacity of the affected limb leading to a decrease in the quality of life for the patient. Various modalities of treatment are available for the management of this condition. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of platelet rich plasma (PRP) injection in the management of early osteoarthritis of the knee and to compare the functional outcome with the studies of various authors as available in literature. Methods: 60 patients with Kellgrenn and Lawrence grade 1 and 2 osteoarthritis of the knee were studied from January 2014 to January 2015 and were followed up for a period of 1 year. Results: There were 39 males and 21 female patients in our study with the right side being more commonly affected. There was a significant decrease in the VAS score and the WOMAC score at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months follow up as compared to the pre-injection baseline scores. All patients were satisfied with the procedure in terms of functional outcome. Conclusions: PRP injection is a cost effective, safe and efficient procedure with easily reproducible results and gives good functional results in terms of pain relief, improvement of range of movements and mobility, and improves the quality of life in patients with early osteoarthritis of the knee.